Road Runner Sports

If you find yourself in Los Angeles and in need of a new pair of running shoes, look no further than Road Runner Sports. The store has everything you need, including personalized foot evaluations in order to match you up with the best pair of shoes for your special feet. Their incredibly attentive staff will give you an individual foot analysis that will measure your arches, check for pronation, and mold arch support insoles specific to your feet. The best part of the evaluation is running on a treadmill barefoot while a camera videotapes your form – and then going over the footage. While the evaluation itself is free, the personalized insoles molded to your feet will cost approximately $80, but they can be used in any and all of your shoes. If you don’t want to purchase the insoles, the Road Runner Sports’ staff can also suggest different types of shoes, ranging from traditional brands to the more minimalist styles, based on the results of your evaluation. While you’re there, pick up a new outfit or your favorite gels, bars or other forms of snacks, as the store has a full range of nutrition and apparel products!

1338 4th Street, Santa Monica, CA

The Santa Monica location is a block away from the Third Street Promenade, a popular outdoor shopping area that tourists and locals frequent. Parking is available in a lot just a couple shops down where you can park for free for the first 90 minutes. Road Runner Sports is also just a few blocks from the beach — the perfect place to try out those new shoes. The chain calls itself the “World’s Largest Running and Walking Store” and with locations around the country, it’s an appropriate tagline. Don’t let the big chain vibe scare you, though – the staff is incredibly friendly, makes sure you get a personal shopping experience, and the store hosts free Thursday night runs.

This review was provided by Becky Solo, a Ramblen Brand Ambassador. If you’re interested in providing reviews of health and fitness resources in your city, please click here.